In a recent development, England’s Lionesses have successfully hashed out an agreement with the Football Association, and it’s not just about the bonuses. Captain Millie Bright, one of the key figures in these discussions, shed light on this significant development.
The backdrop to this agreement is a lingering dispute over performance-related bonuses that had the Lionesses concerned. The issue took center stage during the Women’s World Cup, with negotiations being temporarily halted. However, Bright is optimistic about the future, stating that the squad is confident things will change for the better.
So, what’s in this agreement? Well, that’s the intriguing part. While the specifics haven’t been disclosed, Bright emphasized that it goes beyond financial matters. It’s about setting an example on and off the pitch, being leaders in women’s football.
“The women’s game is evolving very quickly, so conversations like this need to happen to make sure in all areas we are at the top of our game,” Bright explained. “The conversation was extremely positive. We feel really confident moving forward with the structure we now have in place.”
This development follows discussions with other nations like Australia, Spain, and the United States, which had successfully secured bonuses for their players after the Women’s World Cup. In contrast, the Lionesses, who reached the final, were left in limbo. However, since July, they’ve been in talks with the FA and the Professional Footballers’ Association to address this issue.
This year marked a significant change as players at the Women’s World Cup received individual payments directly from FIFA. These payments ranged from £23,500 for players from teams eliminated in the group stages to a whopping £211,000 for the Spanish team that clinched the title. Moreover, nations received increased prize money, with Spain taking home £3.4 million as champions.
Bright emphasized that the agreement encompasses a wide range of aspects related to women’s football, not just financial matters. It’s about shaping the future of the sport and ensuring it provides equal opportunities for the next generation. The Lionesses have been using their platform to address societal issues, including working with the government to promote equal school sport opportunities for girls.
“We’re very passionate about the next generation, where the game is and what we represent,” Bright said. “No matter what we do, we want to stand for our values, what we believe in, and do it in the best possible way. The way we carry ourselves is really important for us.”
England manager Sarina Wiegman expressed her satisfaction with the players reaching an agreement with the FA. This resolution allows the team to refocus on football, and Wiegman had expected this positive outcome.
The Lionesses are now gearing up for upcoming matches against Scotland and the Netherlands in the Women’s Nations League, and this agreement brings much-needed stability to their preparations.
The agreement represents a significant step forward for women’s football, and it highlights the proactive approach taken by the players in ensuring that future England teams won’t have to engage in protracted negotiations before major tournaments. The focus now is on creating clear frameworks for payments and other aspects, a model that could potentially be adopted in the domestic game as well.
In conclusion, this agreement is not just about bonuses; it’s about setting a standard and ensuring that women’s football continues to evolve and thrive both on and off the field. The Lionesses are not only champions in their sport but also champions for positive change in the world of football.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Women’s Football Agreement
What was the main issue between the Lionesses and the Football Association (FA)?
The main issue was a dispute over performance-related bonuses that arose during the Women’s World Cup. The Lionesses were frustrated that a deal had not been reached before the tournament.
What is the significance of the agreement beyond financial matters?
The agreement goes beyond finances and is about setting an example in women’s football. It’s focused on being leaders on and off the pitch and addressing various aspects of the women’s game.
Did other countries’ teams receive bonuses after the Women’s World Cup?
Yes, players from rival nations such as Australia, Spain, and the United States received bonuses after the Women’s World Cup, but the Lionesses, who reached the final, did not initially.
What were the individual payments made to players at the Women’s World Cup?
Individual payments varied based on how far the teams progressed in the tournament. Players received payments ranging from £23,500 for those whose teams were eliminated in the group stages to £211,000 for the Spanish team, which won the tournament.
How are the Lionesses using their platform to promote change in women’s football?
The Lionesses are using their platform to address societal issues, including working with the government to introduce equal school sport opportunities for girls. They are passionate about shaping the future of the game and representing their values.
What does the agreement mean for the future of women’s football in England?
The agreement is a significant step forward, ensuring that future England teams won’t face prolonged negotiations before major tournaments. It aims to create clear frameworks for payments and other aspects, potentially setting a model for the domestic game as well.
More about Women’s Football Agreement
- BBC Sport: Millie Bright – Lionesses captain says England players have ‘come to an agreement’ with FA
- BBC Sport: Women’s World Cup: England Lionesses set for bonuses
- FIFA: FIFA to distribute $30 million to players at FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023
- The Guardian: England’s women agree World Cup bonuses with FA after talks
- The Telegraph: England women end dispute over World Cup bonuses with agreement on payouts
- Women’s Nations League on UEFA’s Official Website
- FA’s Official Website
1 comment
lionesses rock! glad they sortd out that deal wiv FA. go girlz! ⚽